Easy Fixes – Microsoft Outlook cannot Connect to Server Error.

One of the most common issues that Outlook users experience is the “Microsoft Outlook Cannot Connect to Server.” This error can also prevent you from accessing your emails, which is irritating. Luckily, these problems with Outlook can be fixed pretty easily, and Outlook can be restored to online status. In this article, we will explain why this error occurs and provide practical solutions to fix it.

Reasons for Microsoft Outlook Cannot Connect to Server Error

The “Cannot Connect to Server” error in Microsoft Outlook is an error that occurs when the software cannot connect to your email server. This can be caused by a range of factors, including:

• Network issues: There are chances you are using Outlook, poor internet connectivity, or a firewall that’s blocking Outlook from accessing the server.
• Incorrect email account settings: Outlook outdated or wrong email configurations.
• Corrupt OST files: Server connection can be interfered with damaged Outlook data files.
• Outdated software: Compatibility issues may occur from running an out-of-date version of Outlook or Windows.
• Add-in interference: Server connection problems can be caused by faulty or incompatible add-ins.

Before we can tackle the error, we must understand the root causes. Let’s now see some of the ways you can solve this problem.

Methods to Fix Microsoft Outlook Cannot Connect to Server Error

Various methods to fix Outlook cannot connect to the exchange Error

Method 1: Check Your Internet Connection

Before we jump into more advanced solutions, make sure your internet connection is stable. This Outlook not connected to server error is caused by one of the most common reasons: a weak or intermittent connection. Try the following:

• Open your web browser, and go to any website to check the Internet is working properly.
• To reset the connection, restart your modem or router. Also, check whether Outlook is online or offline.
• If you are using Wi-Fi, try to connect with an Ethernet cable for a faster connection.

Method 2: Update Outlook

You may also have connection problems with the server if you are using an outdated version of Outlook. Microsoft Exchange server constantly updates and fixes bugs and compatibility issues. This can easily be fixed by updating Outlook.

• Open Outlook.
• Head to File > Office Account (or Account in some versions).
• Click Update Now under Product Information and select Update Options.



• If no Update Now option is available in your Outlook client, download and install the Windows OS updates.

Method 3: Disable Faulty Add-ins

Outlook add-ins can improve Outlook functionality, but at times, they conflict with the server connection. Faulty or outdated add-ins may be the reason Outlook can’t connect to the server error message.

• Press the Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog box. Type Outlook /safe and hit the Enter key or OK. This will launch Outlook in safe mode.



• Click File > Options.



• Open Outlook in safe mode. Click ‘Add-Ins’ and then click the ‘Go‘ button beside Manage: COM Add-Ins.



• Click OK and uncheck all Add-Ins.



• Reboot Outlook in normal mode.

Method 4: Create a New Outlook Profile

In some cases, a corrupt Outlook profile may prevent the program from connecting to the server. To resolve the Outlook issue, you can create a new profile without losing your email data.

• In the Control Panel, search ‘Mail.’ Click on the ‘Mail’ option, then.



• Under the mail setup window, click on ‘Show Profiles.’



• Click on Add to add a new outlook profile.



• Type in the Profile Name and press ‘OK.’



• Log into your new profile with your email account and Finish.



• It will create a new Outlook profile.

Method 5: Repair Outlook Account

If all the above fails to fix the “Outlook trying to connect to server” error, you can go for repairing your Outlook account.
When you enter the servers or email addresses in Outlook, the info associated with these servers or email addresses is known as an Outlook account. And these settings might be disrupted, which might cause problems like the one you are facing now. The problem could be fixed by repairing an Outlook account. So, try the following steps:

• Open Outlook.
• Now click on “File”>” Info”> Account and Social Network Settings”>” Account settings.”
• Click on the “Repair” button and select your account



• You will be prompted to enter your account details or to confirm simply. They suggest that you should remove the password and reenter it to get rid of the change you have entered the wrong password.
• Hit the “Next” button. This allows Outlook to connect automatically to the server and diagnose any problems.

Method 6: Verify that Outlook Is Online and Disable Offline Mode

Outlook has an Offline Mode that prevents It from connecting to the server. If your Outlook is set to work offline, you will get a “Cannot Connect to Server” error. Make sure Outlook is online.

Open Outlook.

Go to the “Send/Receive” tab.

To reconnect, choose the “Work Offline” option.

Method 7: Try Goldytools OST to PST Converter

The above methods can solve most connection glitches, but things go south when file corruption is the culprit of connection failures. If you still can’t connect to the server after trying all manual fixes, your OST file may be corrupted. When it comes to this case, an OST to PST converter can be the easiest and the most effective solution.
Goldytools OST to PST Converter is a powerful tool that lets you repair corrupt OST files and recover your data by converting them to the only used PST format. It allows you to recover your emails, contacts, and calendar entries even if manual methods fail; you don’t lose your data.

Conclusion

The “Microsoft Outlook Cannot Connect to Server” error is one of the most common errors, but by using the above-mentioned troubleshooting methods, you can fix it in no time. First, start simple, like updating Outlook, disabling faulty add-ins, or checking your connection settings. If that doesn’t work, try creating a new profile or repairing your Outlook account. But when manual methods don’t work and corrupted OST files are the cause, using an OST to PST converter like Goldytools OST to PST Converter is the easiest and the most effective way out.